Today we’d like to introduce you to Travis Perez
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
When I was younger, I was intrigued by graphic design mostly by my mother. She was the one who shaped how I am today. Growing up I played a lot of video games and watched a lot of videos online. I tried to keep up with the current trends of my age group, and now I still do the same only I apply it to my work.
I learned how to use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator when I was 15 by messing around and watching YouTube tutorials. Throughout high school, I applied what I learned in classes like Graphic Design 1-3, Photojournalism, and Digital Media. During these classes, I created things like product mockups, logos, poster graphics, etc.
I took 3D Modeling my freshman year and I ended up enjoying creating 3D scenes. Although 3D modeling is something I enjoy doing, it is hard to learn fully. I’ve used applications like Maya and Blender, Maya during school, and Blender for recent personal projects like my brand.
In my junior year, I was a manager for our school basketball team. As a manager, I was able to build on my college portfolio by recording and editing footage, as well as capturing and editing photos. Throughout the year I improved my recording and editing skills trying to get better and better.
Now in my senior year, I am well acquainted with Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, and Premiere Pro. I am taking broadcast and photojournalism. I already had some interest in both videography and photography but Photojournalism and Broadcast pushed me further for creativity. In Broadcast I record and edit footage of football as well as all our school pep rallies. I focus more on transitions, color grading, and workflow. Also in Broadcast, I revised the logo we already had using Blender to turn it into 3D and animating it. I also made an outro for all our social media videos. Photojournalism taught me how to understand and adjust all the settings and specifications on cameras. During this class, I took photos and added graphic design elements to create a combination of the two.
It wasn’t until my senior year that I finally joined any clubs or groups. I took on the role of an officer in our school’s fashion club, where I was responsible for capturing our meetings through photography. This experience not only allowed me to engage with my classmates but also helped me develop my creative and leadership skills.
My style in high school has had a complete transformation. I went from wearing nothing but shorts and hoodies to exploring various styles, including sweaters, quarter-zips, jeans, sweatpants, and a range of shoes. Ironically, I once said I wouldn’t wear jorts and jeans, yet now they’re staples in my wardrobe, and I even make them myself.
I got into sewing only recently in 2023 and, ever since then, I’ve loved it. In summer 2023 I took sewing classes on just the basics when I was just getting started. I slowly began to learn more about how everything works and my first ever sewing project was a test I did on a pair of khakis. I tried to add a little flare. The flare ended up being too short in the end, but it was a good lesson. Trial and error is part of creating. Some advice I would give out is that mistakes are proof that you are trying. Recently, I completed my first pair of jeans from scratch, along with several messenger bags and bookmarks.
I like to come up with ideas and what I want to make when I sit down in front of my sewing machine. Sewing to me is an outlet for what comes to mind. I like to combine a mix of streetwear alongside my sewn pieces. I get lots of different inspirations for my craft from everywhere I look. Balenciaga, Acne Studios, and Nike are a couple of brands I like to watch and get some inspiration from.
I carried my skills from high school, Graphic Design, 3D Modeling, Photography, Videography, and sewing into my brand. Nuisance to Humanity is a streetwear clothing brand I founded in 2021. I came up with the name and designed the logo using Illustrator. Instead of hiring people to take photos or create promotional videos, I used my existing skills, continued learning, and did everything myself. In 2022, I also created my website, further establishing my brand’s online presence.
Connections are a major thing that has helped me with my journey. While playing on a basketball team in 2022, one of my teammates’ mother recommended a local clothing manufacturer to me. Through this, I was able to print one of my first designs into a physical item for my brand. I also had a second piece made recently for a fashion show I was able to put my pieces into. In Fall 2024, I was invited to Art Meets Fashion at the Heard Craig Center in McKinney, Texas, an annual event that highlights the connection between visual art and fashion. Artists are invited to inspire fashion designers, and designers, in turn, create pieces influenced by art. During the show, a few models showcased my designs. After the show, there was also a popup and I sold several items. I have another show coming up in April in Houston that I am looking forward to.
In 2024, I joined creative groups like AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Arts) that helped me grow my design skills and connect with others. Through an AIGA Typography Workshop, I learned how different typefaces impact design as well as techniques for spacing, alignment, and readability. These workshops help me make more thoughtful design choices. In a Figma Workshop also offered, I gained insight into UI/UX design, wireframes, and prototypes while learning how to build user-friendly interfaces. Being part of these groups has helped me develop my creativity and connect with others who share my passion for design.
Recently, I’ve been helping some friends with photography and creating graphics for their projects. As I continue to grow and refine my abilities, I feel like I’m on the verge of something big.
These interests are what I want to pursue in college, which is why I applied to schools that focus on the creative arts and emphasize areas I’m passionate about, such as fashion, graphic design, photography, and videography.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey is almost never a smooth one, and I’ve encountered several obstacles along the way. Time management, maintaining relationships, and a lack of collaborators have all been challenges I’ve had to navigate. There are times when I’m focused on a clothing project or trying to brainstorm new ideas, but other responsibilities that are just as important start to pile up. The problem with this is that if I can’t finish one task, another quickly takes its place, creating a never-ending cycle of things left undone. It becomes overwhelming, and it’s hard to stay on top of everything.
Relationships also tie into this struggle. Balancing time between work and personal life is difficult, especially if you’re with someone who doesn’t fully understand the level of commitment your passion requires. It’s challenging to juggle creative projects with spending time with friends, a partner, or just taking a break. Without someone who shares the same mindset or goals, it can feel like there’s always a tug-of-war between work and personal life, which adds another layer of stress. Finding the right balance is a constant battle, but it’s something I’m always learning to navigate better.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I focus on a blend of fashion design, graphic design, photography, and videography, with a strong emphasis on streetwear. My brand, Nuisance to Humanity, which I founded in 2021, reflects my creative journey. I design clothing such as jeans, shirts, and hoodies, combining streetwear aesthetics with a unique twist. Along with product design, I create all of my own promotional content—photography, videos, and graphics—using the skills I’ve developed over the years in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, and After Effects. What sets me apart is my ability to manage every aspect of my brand, from designing products to marketing and content creation, without relying on others. I believe I excel when working under pressure, pushing myself to work harder when things are needed.
I’m most proud of the progress I’ve made with my brand, from its creation in 2021 to seeing my designs showcased at events like Art Meets Fashion at the Heard Craig Center in McKinney, Texas, and my upcoming show in Houston. I also take pride in my growth across other areas, such as 3D modeling, sewing, and continuously refining my skills.
What truly sets me apart is the combination of creative disciplines I bring to the table. I’m not just a designer; I’m also a photographer, videographer, and content creator. This approach allows me to express myself in diverse ways and communicate my brand’s message more effectively. Though balancing time, relationships, and projects can be a challenge, I’m proud of how I’ve learned to overcome setbacks, constantly evolving along the way. It’s this persistence and versatility that I believe will help me stand out and continue making an impact.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
When it comes to networking and finding a mentor, one of the easiest ways for me has been through my mom. She’s already established in the arts world and has helped connect me with other creative people she knows. For example, my opportunity to showcase my work at the Art Meets Fashion show at the Heard Craig Center came about through these connections, and I’m incredibly grateful for that.
Another great way to build connections has been through school. One of my teachers, in particular, has been a tremendous help to me. He has always supported my growth and pushed me to succeed. I’m truly thankful for his guidance and inspiration, as he’s played a significant role in my development. Finding mentors and connections in both personal and professional spaces has been invaluable in my journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://travisxperez.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nuisancetohumanity/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travis-perez-264105279/
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/travisxperez/
